How to Travel Between Canary Islands
(Ferries vs. Flights vs. Car Rental)

Introduction

The Canary Islands, an archipelago off the coast of Africa, consist of eight main islands, each offering unique landscapes, attractions, and experiences. If you're planning a trip to the Canaries, you may want to explore more than one island. But what’s the best way to travel between them? This guide breaks down the most efficient and cost-effective transportation options: ferries, flights, and car rentals.

Overview of Travel Options

Ferries

  • Best for: Budget travelers, those bringing cars
  • Pros: Scenic views, flexible schedules, car transport
  • Cons: Can be slow, weather-dependent

Flights

  • Best for: Time-conscious travelers, inter-island hops
  • Pros: Fastest option, frequent flights
  • Cons: More expensive, airport hassle

Car Rental

  • Best for: Exploring single islands
  • Pros: Convenient, flexible
  • Cons: Cannot take between islands (most companies)

Option 1: Ferries
– Scenic and Budget-Friendly

Ferries are a popular choice for inter-island travel, especially for those who want to bring their vehicles or prefer a more scenic journey. Several ferry companies operate routes between the islands, offering both fast and slow services.

Major Ferry Operators

  • Fred. Olsen Express: Fast and reliable, connecting most major islands.
  • Naviera Armas: Covers all islands with slightly lower prices.
  • Líneas Romero: Operates mainly between Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, and La Graciosa.

Approximate Travel Times & Costs

  • Tenerife → Gran Canaria: 1 - 2 hours (€30-€60) ($30 - $62)
  • Lanzarote → Fuerteventura: 25 - 45 minutes (€15-€40) ($15 - $45)
  • La Palma → Tenerife: 2.5 - 4 hours (€40-€70) ($40 - $75)

Pros and Cons of Traveling by Ferry

Pros:

  • Generally more affordable than flights.
  • No strict baggage limitations.
  • Option to bring a car on most routes.
  • Enjoy scenic ocean views during travel.

Cons:

  • Travel times can be longer compared to flights.
  • Weather can impact schedules, causing delays.
  • Motion sickness can be an issue for some travelers.

Booking & Tips

  • Book in advance, especially during peak season.
  • If prone to seasickness, choose a larger ferry or take medication beforehand.
  • Consider overnight ferries for longer routes to save time and accommodation costs.

Option 2: Flights
– The Fastest Way to Hop Between Islands

If you're short on time, flying is the quickest way to travel between the Canary Islands. Most flights are operated by Binter Canarias and CanaryFly, offering frequent connections.

Key Airports & Routes

  • Tenerife (TFN & TFS) → Gran Canaria (LPA): The busiest route, with flights every 30 minutes.
  • Lanzarote (ACE) → Fuerteventura (FUE): A 30-minute flight.
  • La Palma (SPC) → Tenerife (TFN): Quick flights under 45 minutes.

Approximate Flight Costs

  • Tenerife → Gran Canaria: 30 min (€40-€80) ($40 - $85)
  • Lanzarote → Fuerteventura: 30 min (€50-€90) ($50 - $95)
  • La Palma → Tenerife: 45 min (€50-€100) ($50 - $105)

Pros and Cons of Traveling by Flying

Pros:

  • Travel times are significantly shorter than ferries.
  • Frequent departures between main islands.
  • Less affected by weather conditions.

Cons:

  • Airports are often outside city centers, adding transfer time.
  • Baggage fees may apply.
  • Not all islands have direct flights between them.

Booking & Tips

  • Book early to secure lower fares.
  • Check baggage policies, as low-cost airlines may have restrictions.
  • Arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before departure.

Option 3: Car Rentals
– The Best for Exploring Individual Islands

While you cannot drive directly between islands, renting a car is essential for exploring each destination. Most major rental companies operate at airports and ferry terminals.

Average Car Rental Costs

  • Economy Car: (€25-€40) ($25 - $45)
  • SUV: (€40-€70) ($40 - $75)
  • Convertible: (€50-€90) ($50 - $95)

Pros and Cons of Renting a Car

Pros:

  • Total freedom to explore remote areas.
  • No reliance on public transportation.
  • Relatively cheap compared to taxis.

Cons:

  • Cannot take rental cars between islands (exceptions exist but require additional paperwork and insurance).
  • Some mountain roads can be challenging for inexperienced drivers.

Rental Tips

  • Book in advance for the best rates.
  • Check if the company allows inter-island car transport (some local agencies do, but it requires additional insurance).
  • Always inspect the vehicle before driving off.

Conclusion: What’s the Best Way to Travel Between the Canary Islands?

The best way to travel between the Canary Islands depends on your priorities:

  • If budget-friendly travel is your goal, ferries are your best bet.
  • If you want to save time, opt for short flights.
  • If you prefer flexibility, renting a car is ideal for individual island exploration.

Ultimately, a combination of ferries, flights, and car rentals can offer the best experience for island hopping. Plan your itinerary based on time, cost, and your preferred travel style!

Book Your Transport

  • Find the best ferry deals: Fred. Olsen Express, Naviera Armas
  • Compare flights: Binter Canarias, CanaryFly
  • Rent a car: Rentalcars.com, Cicar